About the Recipe
Perfect for all the high holidays!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Stuffing:
- 3 tbsp oil
- 1 pound boneless short ribs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 cup raw basmati rice
- 1/2 bunch parsley, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
Ingredients for Cornish Hens:
- 4 Cornish hens (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 6 golden potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- About 10 garlic cloves
- About 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 3 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 4 tsp paprika, plus extra for rubbing on top of the hens
- 4 cups chicken stock
Preparation
Directions:
1. Prepare the Stuffing:
   - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and golden, about 5–7 minutes.
   - Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   - Add the cubed short ribs to the pan, stirring occasionally until browned, about 5 minutes.
   - Stir in the spices and pine nuts, and cook for another 5 minutes.
   - Remove from heat and set aside.
   - In a large bowl, combine the raw basmati rice, cooked meat mixture, chopped parsley, and diced tomato. Season with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Cornish Hens:
   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   - Wash and pat dry the Cornish hens, trimming any excess fat or skin.
   - Stuff each Cornish hen with the rice and meat mixture.
   - Place the hens in an ovenproof baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart.
3. Add Potatoes and Garlic Cloves:
   - Surround the stuffed hens with the cubed, peeled potatoes and whole garlic cloves.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   - In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the sauce.
   - Pour the sauce evenly over the hens and potatoes.
   - Sprinkle a bit of paprika on top of each Cornish hen for extra color.
5. Bake:
   - Cover the baking dish with parchment paper and foil.
   - Bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 hours, removing the cover for the last 30 minutes to allow the hens to turn golden brown.
   - Optional: Broil on high for the last 5–6 minutes for an extra crispy top.
6. Serve:
   - Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and enjoy!
Instagram Reel: